Tripura, 17 Sep 2026: Tripura’s Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma called for greater participation in sports to promote physical and mental well-being among young people and help build a drug-free society. He was speaking at the state-level 12-kilometre Cross-Country Championship 2026, organised by the Border Security Force (BSF) under its SPANDAN League initiative in Teliamura on Thursday.
The cross-country event was held around the Khashia Mangal BSF Camp, with participants starting their race from the camp, covering approximately 12 kilometres, and finishing at the same location. Athletes from different parts of Tripura took part in the competition, creating a festive atmosphere in the area.
Minister Bikash Debbarma attended the event as the chief guest. T. N. Reddy, DIG, Sector Headquarters BSF Teliamura, along with other BSF officials, organisers, athletes, coaches, officers and sports enthusiasts, were also present. Internationally acclaimed gymnast Dipa Karmakar was among the special guests at the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Minister Bikash Debbarma emphasised the importance of sports in preventing drug abuse among young people.
“Every boy and girl must be encouraged to participate in sports if we want to build a drug-free India,” the minister said.
He highlighted that sports not only contribute to physical fitness but also help develop discipline, confidence, mental strength and positive thinking. He stressed the need to expand sporting opportunities to keep the younger generation away from drug addiction.
Speaking to the media, Debbarma thanked the BSF Sector Headquarters in Teliamura for organising the event on the occasion of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 76th birthday. He also mentioned the participation of the District Magistrate, DFO, SDPO, BSF DIG and other officials in the programme.
The minister said sports could play an important role in advancing the country and promoting the goal of a drug-free India and drug-free Tripura. He noted that participants had taken a pledge to reject drugs and encouraged young people to stay away from substance abuse through active involvement in sports.
He also highlighted that a blood donation programme was scheduled as part of the celebrations, coinciding with Vishwakarma Jayanti.
Debbarma further stated that sporting events such as the cross-country championship help strengthen relations between the BSF and local communities while encouraging young people to lead healthy and disciplined lives.
At the conclusion of the 12-kilometre competition, medals and certificates of appreciation were presented to the first-, second- and third-place winners by the attending guests. All participating athletes were also encouraged for their efforts.
The event conveyed a strong message on promoting sports, encouraging youth participation and working towards a drug-free society in Tripura.
